Captain Ahab, the iconic character from Herman Melville’s novel “Moby-Dick,” is known for his relentless pursuit of the white whale. His determination and obsession have made him one of literature’s most memorable characters. Throughout the book, Ahab delivers powerful quotes that reflect his unwavering pursuit and his deep understanding of the human condition. In this article, we have compiled a list of Captain Ahab quotes that will inspire and provoke thought.
In the novel, Ahab is portrayed as a complex character whose obsession with Moby-Dick consumes him entirely. His quotes often delve into themes of fate, revenge, and the relentless pursuit of one’s goals. These quotes not only showcase Ahab’s strong personality but also provide valuable insights into the human psyche.
Whether you are a fan of literature or simply looking for thought-provoking quotes, this collection of Captain Ahab quotes is sure to captivate your mind and leave you contemplating the depths of human desire, determination, and obsession.
Read these Captain Ahab quotes
“I’d strike the sun if it insulted me.”
“All visible objects are but pasteboard masks.”
“Ahab never thinks, he just feels, feels, feels.”
“All my means are sane, my motive and my object mad.”
“Talk not to me of blasphemy, man; I’d strike the sun if it insulted me.”
“I am madness maddened!”
“Ahab is for ever Ahab, man. This whole act’s immutably decreed.”
“Better to sleep with a sober cannibal than a drunken Christian.”
“There is no folly of the beast of the earth which is not infinitely outdone by the madness of men.”
“Towards thee I roll, thou all-destroying but unconquering whale; to the last I grapple with thee; from hell’s heart I stab at thee; for hate’s sake I spit my last breath at thee.”
“There is a wisdom that is woe, but there is a woe that is madness.”
“Oh, man! admire and model thyself after the whale! Do thou, too, remain warm among ice.”
“There is no steady unretracing progress in this life.”
“I will have no man in my boat who is not afraid of a whale.”
“The path to my fixed purpose is laid with iron rails, whereon my soul is grooved to run.”
“I am in agony till I find a blue bird.”
“What is it, what nameless, inscrutable, unearthly thing is it; what cozening, hidden lord and master, and cruel, remorseless emperor commands me; that against all natural lovings and longings, I so keep pushing, and crowding, and jamming myself on all the time.”
“I leave a white and turbid wake; pale waters, paler cheeks, where’er I sail. The envious billows sidelong swell to whelm my track; let them; but first I pass.”
“My name is Ahab.”
“I would prefer not to.”
“It is not down on any map; true places never are.”
These Captain Ahab quotes illustrate the complexity of his character and the depth of his obsession. They serve as a reminder of the power of determination and how it can consume an individual. Whether you are a fan of “Moby-Dick” or simply drawn to thought-provoking quotes, these words from Captain Ahab are sure to leave a lasting impression on your mind.
